The holiday season isn’t over yet and your calendar is still marked with a few holiday festivities. As we’re sure you’re aware, these holiday festivities usually include lots of eating and drinking. If you’re pregnant, you are probably wondering if it’s ok to have the occasional “alcoholic” indulgence while attending these festivities.
You might want to have a small glass of red wine at your work party, or feel the urge to ring in the New Year with a toast of champagne. Whatever the reason may be, it is highly discouraged for women to drink alcohol during pregnancy.
Is Alcohol Consumption During Pregnancy Safe?
Drinking during pregnancy can be vey harmful to your baby and is something you should avoid at all costs. According to Medline Plus, alcohol appears to be most damaging to your baby during the first 3 months of pregnancy and it’s unclear what specific consequences there can be. These consequences can have lifelong effects on your baby and shouldn’t be taken lightly.
Effects of Alcohol During Pregnancy
The March of Dimes foundation states the following common effects of alcohol during pregnancy on your baby:
- Birth defects (heart, brain and other organs)
- Preterm birth
- Low birth weight when born
- Vision and hearing problems
- Intellectual disabilities
- Learning and behavior problems
- Sleeping and sucking problems
- Speech and language delays
- Behavioral problems
Mocktails for Pregnancy (Non-Alcoholic Drinks for Pregnant Women)
If you’re pregnant and attending a holiday party this month, try indulging with a mocktail as an alternative to help get into the holiday spirit. And we’re not just talking about a generic glass of sparkling cider.
Get creative! Create a mocktail inspired by your favorite cocktail by omitting the alcohol and adding water, seltzer, or fruit juice instead. Or you may wish to try making non-alcoholic champagne, which is great for all special occasions, especially New Years Eve. Consider adding cranberries for an extra festive look!
It’s important to remember that a healthy pregnancy diet is very crucial when you’re expecting and this includes any liquids you are consuming. Keep this in mind during the busy holiday season to help keep you and your baby safe during pregnancy.
If you live in the area, call us and schedule an appointment with one of our Board-Certified pediatricians or attend one of our baby classes for moms-to-be to learn more about why drinking during pregnancy is strongly discouraged. We will gladly assist you.
Now that you know about the harmful effects of drinking alcohol during pregnancy, please pass it on!